Weight loss is a constant struggle for
the majority of the global population. Unexplained weight loss, especially if it is 10 pounds or more, could mean an underlying issue that needs to be immediately addressed. Drastic and sudden weight loss may be an early sign of diabetes.
Read on to find out how unexplained weight loss is associated with type 2 diabetes.Why can diabetes cause weight loss?
In patients who have type 2 diabetes, the blood glucose level in the bloodstream is very high. The tissues and cells of the body use blood glucose as the primary source of energy. However, for the glucose to reach the cells, it needs the support of insulin.In diabetic patients, lack of insulin prevents glucose from reaching the cells to use as energy. Therefore, the body starts burning fat and causing muscle breakdown, leading to an unhealthy reduction in the overall body weight.Type 1 diabetes has a similar unnatural weight loss pattern. However, in this condition, your body completely stops making insulin instead of simply being unable to use insulin. Unexplained weight loss may occur if you have Type 2 diabetes.
Various causes of unexplained weight loss also include:
- Eating disorders
- Malnutrition
- Tuberculosis
- Cancer
- Hyperthyroidism
- Celiac Disease
- Diabetes mellitus
Is weight loss caused by diabetes dangerous?
It is often assumed that losing weight is a good and healthy sign. While this may be partly true, it all depends on how much weight you’re losing and within what time span. A gradual, intentional weight loss with the support of regular exercise and diet changes is beneficial for the heart, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure.However, in cases where the blood sugar level is too low or too high, or if any heart disease accompanies the condition, the weight loss can be dangerous. Additionally, if the blood sugar content is too high, muscle breakdown can occur, which can also cause an unhealthy weight loss.
When to call your doctor
When you undergo an unintentional weight loss of more than 5% of your usual body weight, or if you lose more than 10 pounds of weight between six to twelve months, you should call your doctor. The doctor will be able to assess the cause of the weight loss and the right treatment for you.You may even call your doctor if you experience any excessive symptoms of diabetes such as fatigue, dizziness, blurred vision, slow healing, extreme hunger, genital itchiness, and excessive urination.Are you suffering from unexplained weight loss, or are you experiencing symptoms related to
Type 2 Diabetes? Visit our team of experts at
MI Express Primary Care for the best treatment plans for diabetes management and controlling unexplained weight loss.
